Department of Geography and Environmental Planning

Visualizing the World

A major in geography and environmental planning broadens your understanding of the diversity and richness of world regions, the complex interaction between the physical environment and human activity, as well as the geosciences. Geography’s strength lies in its interdisciplinary approach. Whether in the classroom, through an internship or through a study abroad program, a degree in geography and environmental planning prepares students for roles as skilled professionals in the public and private sectors, and as global citizens.

Careers

A degree in geography and environmental planning opens up many careers in the public and private sectors including planning, geoscience, business, education and nonprofits. Our graduates have gone on to work in local and state government, for engineering firms, the Chicago Board of Trade, the FBI, FEMA, the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, and a number of nonprofits. Some of our graduates have established their own companies. Our interdisciplinary approach provides students with the skills to pursue a wide range of career paths.

A Diverse Faculty

The Department of Geography and Environmental Planning has 14 full-time and 12 part-time faculty with wide-ranging research interests:

Planners who analyze sustainable communities, tourism, transportation and regional development

Human geographers with specialties in urban geography and migration as well as economic and political geography

Opportunities Outside the Classroom

The Department of Geography and Environmental Planning is committed to education both inside and outside the classroom. Most of our students participate in internships in both the public and private sectors, and the department works hard to help students connect with these opportunities. We also strongly encourage our students to study abroad when possible.